Stop Speeding
Stop Aggressive Driving
Did you know that most of Delaware’s speed related fatal and injury crashes occur in the afternoons and evenings on secondary roads? Speed is a leading contributing factor in Delaware’s traffic deaths, second only to DUI! This month we are focusing on Speeding and Aggressive Driving.
What you need to know
To date, aggressive driving is listed as a leading contributing factor in 29 (or 55%) of the state’s 53 fatal crashes. Speeding is the most frequently cited of the aggressive driving behaviors, and it alone is responsible for 12 (or 22%) of Delaware’s 53 fatal crashes. That’s why OHS launched the Stop Aggressive Driving Campaign on July 6th. OHS is partnering in this initiative with the Delaware State Police statewide, New Castle County Police, and Dover Police, by coordinating statewide patrols as well as a public awareness effort through October. The goal is to “Stop Speeding Before It Stops You.”
This month, we are reminding drivers that speeding can cost you your life, will cost you money from tickets and significantly higher insurance costs, and it wastes gas forcing you to full up your gas tank more often.
Here are the facts that you need to know:
- In 2008, the Stop Aggressive Driving campaign resulted in 2,737 speeding citations in three months
- Drivers ticketed for going 10 mph over the speed limit will receive 4 points on their license and be fined $77.40 after court costs are assessed. Fines and points increase from there, ultimately putting your driving privileges at risk.
What you can do
Whether you are late for work or simply running errands, almost everyone speeds at one time or another. Here are a few simple tips to avoid a fine and keep yourself, your family, and your friends safe:
- Call 911 to report aggressive and other unsafe drivers when it is safe to do so or have a passenger do it for you. Report the vehicle’s description, license plate number if you have it, and the direction of travel.
- Obey posted speed limits.
- Avoid quick starts and sudden stops.
- Maintain a safe, predictable speed.
- Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicles around you.
- Signal your intention, whether you are turning a corner or passing another vehicle.
- Obey traffic signs and symbols.
- Always remain calm and in control behind the wheel.
One Last Tip: During the summer months, it is easy to be distracted on the roadway. Do your best to limit distractions in the car by turning down the radio and putting the cell phone on silent. That way you will be able to pay full attention to the other vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists who are around you.
It could save your life.
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